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Before using nasal mupirocin
Before using mupirocin make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you are taking or using any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
How to use nasal mupirocin
Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
- Blow your nose gently and then wash your hands.
- Place a small amount of ointment (about the size of a match-head) onto your little finger and apply to the inside of a nostril. Repeat for the other nostril.
- Apply gentle pressure to the outside of the nose to spread the ointment around the inside of the nostrils.
- Wash your hands after using the ointment.
Getting the most from your treatment
- Apply the ointment 2-3 times a day for 5 days, unless your doctor has told you otherwise.
- In order to clear up the infection, the ointment should be used regularly at equally spaced intervals.
- If you stop using nasal mupirocin too early, not all the bacteria may have been killed
or they may continue to grow. - This ointment is for use in the nose only. Do not use it for other parts of the body.
- Take special care to avoid getting any ointment into your eyes. If you do, rinse the eye area well with warm water.
- Do not use the ointment for longer than seven days, unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
Can nasal mupirocin cause problems?
This ointment may occasionally cause a stinging sensation when first applied. If this, or any other side effect becomes troublesome, then talk to your pharmacist.
How to store nasal mupirocin
- Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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References
- Manufacturers PIL, Bactroban Nasal®, GlaxoSmithKline, electronic Medicines Compendium. Revised February 2008, accessed October 2008.
- British National Formulary; 56th Edition (September 2008) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).